U.S. Rep. Grace Meng paid tribute to New York’s Bravest during a recent visit to the Maspeth firehouse that houses Squad 288 and HazMat 1, meeting with firefighters and top FDNY officials to discuss ongoing support and recognize the company’s critical role in protecting Queens residents.
Meng was joined by Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker, FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito, and other fire officials for a visit to the station at 56-29 68th St. Meng toured the facility, viewed equipment, and shared lunch with firefighters while discussing federal support and funding priorities for the firehouse.
“It was an honor to meet with them and thank them for working tirelessly to keep many of my constituents safe,” Meng said in a statement. “I am always proud to be a friend of the FDNY and support the work they do so that New York’s Bravest can continue saving lives and protecting our communities.”
Meng also paid tribute to the 19 firefighters from Squad 288/HazMat 1 who lost their lives while responding to the Sept. 11th attacks at the World Trade Center—more than any other firehouse in the city. The Maspeth station has since become a powerful symbol of sacrifice and resilience in the FDNY’s history.
Squad 288 and HazMat 1 operate out of the same Maspeth firehouse, with HazMat 1 serving as the FDNY’s citywide hazardous materials response unit. The company responds to high-risk incidents involving chemical, biological, and radiological threats in addition to standard fire and rescue operations.
In recent years, the firehouse has drawn support from local leaders and preservation advocates for landmark designation due to its historical importance and the heavy loss it suffered on 9/11. Meng has voiced her support for the landmarking effort, citing the firehouse’s legacy and its continuing service to New York City.
Her visit comes amid continued discussions in Congress over funding for programs such as the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER), both of which have helped FDNY units modernize and expand their capabilities in recent decades.
